BiocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More is gaining attention for its ability to improve soil health and combat climate change. In a study published in Energy 360, Nakum Divyangkumar and Panwar explore an optimized method to produce high-performance biochar from sugarcane bagasse and corncob using vacuum pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More. Their research fine-tunes biochar’s structure, making it more effective for environmental and agricultural applications.

Using a vacuum pyrolyzer at different temperatures (500°C to 700°C), the authors analyzed how biochar forms and improves in quality. They found that increasing temperature reduced biochar yield but enhanced carbon content, surface area, and porosityPorosity of biochar is a key factor in its effectiveness as a soil amendment and its ability to retain water and nutrients. Biochar’s porosity is influenced by feedstock type and pyrolysis temperature, and it plays a crucial role in microbial activity and overall soil health. Biochar More—all critical factors for applications like water purification, carbon sequestration, and soil enhancement. The study revealed that sugarcane bagasse-derived biochar had a maximum surface area of 185.85 m²/g, significantly higher than corncob-based biochar at 69.29 m²/g. This high surface area makes it an excellent material for absorbing pollutants and improving soil fertility.

To optimize biochar quality, the researchers used response surface methodology (RSM), a statistical approach that helps find the best conditions for production. Their results suggest that the ideal temperature for maximum surface area (186.84 m²/g) is around 595°C. Higher temperatures improved biochar’s thermal stability, carbon content, and adsorption properties, making it useful in diverse applications, from agriculture to environmental remediation.

Beyond soil improvement, biochar has potential in carbon sequestration, wastewater treatment, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study highlights its role in sustainable waste management by repurposing agricultural residues into a valuable resource. This research supports the growing interest in biochar as an eco-friendly solution to modern environmental challenges.

SOURCE: Divyangkumar, N., & Panwar, N. L. (2025). Optimizing high-performance biochar from sugarcane bagasse and corncob via vacuum pyrolysis. Energy 360, 3, 100014. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energ.2025.100014